MO Ag Donates $175K to Combat Childhood Hunger

For the third year in a row, agriculture groups in Missouri partnered to raise awareness of childhood food insecurity and raise support for food banks across the state through the Missouri Farmers Care (MFC) Drive to Feed Kids.

The Drive culminated at the Missouri State Fair with a variety of service events. This summer-long effort raised $175,000, which was presented Aug. 17 at the Missouri State Fair to Feeding Missouri - the association of Missouri's six regional food banks.

In a press release from Missouri Farmers Care, they noted:

"FFA Food Insecurity Day was once again a great success. Students noticed a need in our state and took action, which is what FFA is all about," said Brenden Kleiboeker, Missouri FFA Association President. "I have confidence that students will go back to their communities with these needs in mind and continue making an impact in our state."

Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson, along with Missouri elected officials and agricultural leaders, joined the cause on Thursday, Aug. 15. Together, they packed 1,740 backpack meals that will provide weekend meals through the first month of school for students in Pettis, Benton and Cooper counties.